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GBU-72

GBU-72

Bombs
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Basic Information
Name
GBU-72
Designation
GBU-72
Alternate Designation
GBU-72/B
Equipment Type
Bombs
Manufacturer
—
Date of Introduction
2024
Description

The GBU-72 is a new 5,000-pound class bunker buster bomb combining the BLU-138 penetrator warhead and the JDAM GPS-based guidance system. The US Air Force started the development of the GBU-72 in 2017 with the weapon cleared for operational use in October 2021. The new weapon is expected to cause more damage to hardened and buried targets than the GBU-28 bomb also thanks to a better smart electronic fuze. The US Air Force expects to procure the first GBU-72 bombs in 2022 or 2023 replacing the aging GBU-28 bunker buster bombs. Besides, Israel has expressed its interest in acquiring the new weapon for usage onboard the F-15I Thunder aircraft. The US Air Force's B-1B Lancer bomber was first spotted carrying the GBU-72/B bomb in June 2024.

Overview (Deagel)
Group Bombs
Status Active
Also Known As GBU-72/B
Origin United States of America
Initial Operational Capability (IOC) June 2024
Total Production ?
Specifications (Deagel)
Mass — Weight 5,000 pound
Gear (Deagel)
Item 1 Bombs: BLU-138
Details
Country of Origin United States
Classification
Domain
Ground
Equipment Status
Active
Dimensions
Length
—
Width
—
Height
—
Weight
2268 kg
Operators (2)
United States
Israel
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